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Ecuador boasts of beautiful landscapes, and diversity of climates, people and ancient cultures that connect us to the essence of nature and man. In this edition, we present the Galapagos Natural Heritage site, a place that has displayed the wonder of evolution since ancient times.
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Issue No. 05 May - 2015
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
LIKE N
OWHE
RE ELSE • ALL IN ONE PLACE • SO CLOSE
GALAPAGOS • PACIFIC COAST • ANDES • A
MAZON
[ editorial ]
[ 2 ]
GAL
APAG
OS
A UNIQUE LOOK AT THE ENCHANTED ISLANDSTHAT STRADDLE THE EQUATOR
13Major islands, 5 medium-sized
islands, and 215 islets make up the
archipelago. The islands can be
visited all year-round due to their
position on the equator.
[ photography ]
[ 3 ]
[ photography ]
For historical reasons and for convenience,
the traditional way to visit the Galapagos
Islands was by boat or yacht, with an itinerary
that explored the national parks in different
geographical locations. While these methods
are very attractive, we should not rule out
another that began in the 80s and reached
significant popularity in the 90s: hotel based
travel. Many visitors are unaware of the human
population of the islands, which currently totals
28,000 inhabitants.
The distribution of the population is spread
across four islands; Santa Cruz (the most
populated and commercial), San Cristobal (the
provincial capital), Isabela (the largest) and
Floreana (the smallest). Not included in this list
is Baltra Island, a military base with an airport.
BEnXpert will offer valuable information; giving
an exact idea of what it means to visit and enjoy
the Galapagos Islands in different ways.
In 1835, on the ship HMS
Beagle, Charles Darwin
visited the Galapagos Islands
for 5 weeks.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW GALAPAGOS
Latitude 0
Min
tur
[ editorial ]
[ 4 ]
Ecuador boasts of beautiful landscapes, and diversity of climates, people and ancient
cultures that connect us to the essence of
nature and man.
In this edition, we present the Galapagos Natural Heritage site, a place that has displayed the wonder of evolution since ancient times. The Galapagos Islands are a place where nature, combined with the power of volcanoes and innocence of the animals, form a perfect balance. This balance was reflected in Darwin’s travel diaries and has also melted the hearts of travellers who have experienced life on these islands. In this Travel Planner we discuss the ways in which you can travel with ease within this untouched and pristine world that Ecuador cares for and maintains as a legacy to the world
and its generations. This is a comprehensive guide which shares the different options available to experience this unique journey.
On the other side of Ecuador to the east, in the Amazon, we introduce the Huaorani culture which has developed alongside tourism, winning recognition from the World Legacy Awards in the category of “Engaging Communities”. A unique place that can be enjoyed safely and with quality services in this
amazing region of our country.
Traveling from east to west in Ecuador is to experience 4 Worlds: the Galapagos, the Pacific Coast, the Andes and the Amazon, each with its own cuisine, culture, nature and people. All in one place, so close.
EDITORIAL COMMITTEEMINISTRY OF TOURISM OF ECUADOR
Dominic Hamilton,Deputy Minister of Promotion
Cristina Rivadeneira,Undersecretary of Markets
Irene Landívar,Director of International Markets
Rocío Castro,International Trade actions general
coordinator
Revised by the Ministry’s of Tourism Communication Direction
EKOSRicardo Dueñas,
Executive President
Mauricio Morillo,Executive Vice-President
Verónica Sevilla,Vice-President of Projects
EDITORIAL STAFFPolo Vaca Jácome
Toa QuirolaFrancisco Dousdebés
GRAPHIC EDITORChristian Toapanta Jaramillo
PHOTOGRAPHYJohn Garate y Huaorani Ecolodge
Cover: John Garate
5500 printed copies.Free distribution only, not for sale.
This magazine is published for the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador by Ekos
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade /EcuadorTravelB2B
@ EcuaTravelTrade All You Need is Ecuador/Trade
For more information visit us at: www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
EditorialSandra Naranjo
MINISTER OF TOURISM, ECUADOR
[ photography ]
[ 5 ]
With yellow flakes and a
yellow tongue, a bright
green back full of brown
spots as well as light
blue spots on its flanks,
this reptile is elegantly
camouflaged in the
Ecuadorian jungle.
Hu
aora
ni E
co -
Lo
dg
e
FAUN
AAnolis Puntatis
[ 6 ]
39 Cultura LA HUAORANI ECOLODGEWORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
39 Cultura LA HUAORANI ECOLODGEWORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
39 Cultura LA HUAORANI ECOLODGEWORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
FOUR WORLDS TOP 5 ORCHIDSNEWSECUADORIANCHOCOLATE
TRAVEL PLANNER MAP,HISTORICAL INFORMATION,PRODUCTS, COMMUNITY.
08
13
/EcuadorTravelB2B @ EcuaTravelTrade All You Need is Ecuador/Trade
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
[ 7 ]
TOP DESTINATION HOTELS IN GALAPAGOSINHABITATED ISLANDS
CULTURE HUAORANI
BIODIVERSE FOREST GUARDIANS
HERITAGE THE TOQUILLA
STRAW HAT
20 40
38
contents
GASTRONOMY BEST DISHES FROM THE
PACIFIC COAST.
31BE
XPR
TEX
PERT
S IN
GA
LAPA
GO
S
[ 8 ][ 8 ]
[ four worlds ]
[ 8 ]
T he Top 5 starts with: 1. ATTELYA MAXIMA ALBA grows in areas on the Pacific coast
near Guayaquil between 100 and 1800m (330 to
6000 feet).
2. ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISTATUM meaning
tooth and tongue in Greek, is a green and yellow
flower with shiny brown petals. It grows in
cold regions of the cloud forest in the northern
Ecuadorian Andes between 1000 and 2000m
(3300 to 6500 feet). 3. EPIDENDRUM are dozens
of very fragrant tiny flowers that grow on
leaf-covered stems. They grow in the soil and
on Ecuadorian trees between 600 and 3200m
(1970 to 10,500 feet). When they have access to
bright light, they can live for several months.
4. ANDINIA SCHIZOPOGON blooms from
autumn to spring in the cloud forests north of
Loja at altitudes of around 3000m (9800 feet).
5. DRACULA SODIROI means “little dragon”
because of its unusual appearance and is
named after Father Sodiro, an Ecuadorian who
discovered it in 1900.
FOUR
!W
ORL
DS
TOP 5 ORCHIDS, COLOURS AND FRAGRANCESOF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPECIMENS IN ECUADOR
Orchids have been
documented in Ecuador since
colonial times.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOWORCHIDS
01
02
03 04
05
Min
tur
[ 9 ][ 9 ]
Experience Latin America organized by the
Latin American Travel Association is a B2B
travel event in London which brings together the
main tourism service providers in Latin America
and buyers from the UK and Europe. This will
be an important opportunity for Ecuador to
showcase itself as a tourist destination. This
event is organized by the largest commercial
travel association and will be held from June
15 - 17, 2015. In 2014, 12 private companies
promoted tourism in Ecuador and the region,
in addition to the Cruise Train and tourism
in Quito. This year that number will increase
considerably and will receive significant support
from the Ministry of Tourism.
From April 14 -16, the China Outbound Tourism
& Travel 2015 was held in Beijing. An
Ecuadorian delegation participated in forums and
meetings. They also presented tourist attractions,
activities and cuisine to agents, airlines, and
Chinese tourism authorities.
F rom 22 to 24 April, 19 companies and
the Ministry of Tourism promoted the “All
You Need is Ecuador” campaign, the country
trademark “Ama la Vida”, and Ecuador as a
tourist destination at the WTMLA in Sao Paulo.
In 2014, 21,784 Brazilians visited Ecuador.
[ four worlds ]
EXPERIENCE LATIN AMERICA
COTTM 2015, CHINA WORLD TRAVEL MARKET
ECUADOR WILL BE THERE
ACTION IN ASIALATIN AMERICA 2015
The
cam
paig
n “A
ll Yo
u N
eed
is Ec
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r” h
as a
stro
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aim
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ore
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30
000
tour
ism w
hole
sale
rs fr
om ta
rget
mar
kets
thro
ugho
ut A
mer
ica,
Eur
ope
and
Asia
. M
any
of th
em h
ave
visit
ed
the
coun
try to
exp
erie
nce
it di
rect
ly. F
or th
ose
who
can
not p
artic
ipat
e in
thes
e tri
ps, t
hey
can
acce
ss th
e sp
ecia
lized
train
ing
sem
inar
s ab
out E
cuad
or o
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ww
w.all
youn
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AL
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T
[ 10 ]
Chocolate is an ancient product for the
country as evidenced by microscopic
remnants of cacao detected in a ceramic
pot that was used more than 5,000 years
ago. This archaeological evidence showed
that chocolate originated in the Ecuadorian
Amazon. Today, Ecuador produces the best
chocolate in the world using fine cacao
called “arriba” or “up”. It earned its name
because when the producers were asked
where the cacao came from, they responded
“rio arriba” or “upstream”. This type of
cacao is extremely rare around the world,
but 70% is cultivated in Ecuador. Through
its production, the cacao becomes so fine
that it is one of the most appreciated in the
world. Each Ecuadorian brand of chocolate
is different and each is unique in terms of
its manufacturing and the ingredients used
in its production.
A CHOCOHOLIC’S HEAVENTHE FINEST AND MOST APPRECIATED AROMA IN THE WORLD»
CHO
COLA
TE [ four worlds ]
REPÚBLICA DEL CACAO offers a fine
cacao-based chocolate made up of a variety
of aromas, and combined with ingredients
such as milk, cape gooseberries, chifles
(thinly-sliced fried plantain) or even organic
rose petals. What sets this chocolate apart
is its aroma and purity. Products are also
available for professional use.
PACARI sources its ingredients from
the local region. Lemongrass is one such
ingredient that is used in its most famous
chocolate, a favourite of Oprah Winfrey. The
Andean blueberry, the cape gooseberry and
the molasses toffee chocolates have won 70
gold and silver medals at the International
Chocolate Awards (London).
HOJA VERDE produces gourmet products
such as chocolate bars made from a
fine aroma Ecuadorian cacao, combined
with guava, mint, mandarins and passion
fruit. The production of these ingredients
conforms to the rules of conservation of
natural resources. CAONI includes 100%
natural and exotic ingredients such as cape
gooseberry, macadamia nuts, passion fruit,
coffee or “cacao nibs”. One of the brand´s
innovations is a chocolate bar with dried
natural banana, called Frutka.
PAKAL its high quality, modern gourmet
products, are made using cacao and
domestic raw materials. The ingredients are
tropical fruits such as banana, pineapple or
mango, fused to the cacao flavour. BIOS
is the company with the finest chocolate-
making tradition, with over 100 years of
experience. They produce confectionery
chocolate, chocolate bars and chocolate
sweets. Raspberry, orange, pineapple,
lemon, coconut and rum combine pleasantly
with this dark chocolate.
Ecuadorian cacao, is known as “Pepa de oro” or “golden seed” may be because the seeds were used as a
currency of exchange, has floral and fruity features, with flavours that distinguish it from other types such as nutty,
almond or spice. These give the chocolate a special flavour when you taste it. Today, this product contributes to
sectors of the economy such as trade and agriculture.
[ 11 ]
AND PERCENTAGES OF CACAO
PRODUCTS
65%-75% DARK CHOCOLATE PROFESSIONAL CHOCOLATE
www.republicadelcacao.com
REPÚBLICA DEL CACAO
55-77% DARK CHOCOLATEMILK CHOCOLATE
www.caonichocolate.com
CAONI
70-100% DARK CHOCOLATE 60-72% ORGANIC CHOCOLATE
www.pacarichocolate.com
PACARI
70% DARK CHOCOLATEORGANIC CACAO GRAINS
www.pakal.com.ec
PAKAL
100% DARK CHOCOLATECHOCOLATE AND COFFEE GRAINS
www.hojaverdegourmet.com
HOJA VERDE
63% DARK CHOCOLATEWITH MILK AND ALMONDS
www.chocolatesbios.com
BIOS
Rep
úb
lica
del
cac
aoP
acar
i
Cao
ni
[ 12 ][ 12 ][ 12 ]
[ four worlds ]
A shuar couple was hunting, when the
husband heard the call of the Kuartam,
a large variety of toad or frog that lives in the
trees of tropical forests. The man began to
imitate its distinctive sounds for fun.
“Kuaaarr taaaamm, kuaaarr
taaaamm”repeated the man.
His wife warned him of the danger, you
shouldn’t bother a Kuartam by imitating it as
it could turn into a tiger and eat you.
The man, with an even more mocking tone
continued:
“Kuaaarr taaaamm, kuaaarr taaaamm, let’s see
if you eat me kuaaarr taaaamm.”
Before the young shuar woman could react,
she saw a tiger launch itself from behind the
nearest tree and devour half of her beloved’s
body. Not a sound was heard during the
attack. The woman waited until dawn to kill
the animal. She returned to same tree and
strangled the animal with great strength.
Kuartam, now in toad form with a huge
stomach, laid dead at her feet. The woman
cut its stomach and the remains of her dead
partner spilled at her feet. Revenge did not
return her beloved, but it served as a warning
that it is ill advised to imitate the Kuartam.
Far away in the jungle, a new “Kuar taaam -
kuar taaam” could be heard.
It was unclear whether it was a toad or a Shuar
waiting for a tiger. LEG
END KUARTAM
TOADAMAZON/SHUAR
io C
h J
org
e C
hic
aiza
Mo
lina
TRAVELPLANNER
Map and technical information
to promote the Galapagos.
Information about permits, flights,
special conditions,
hotels and cruises.
BE XPRTGALAPAGOS EXPERTS
Joh
n G
arat
e
were declared a World
Heritage Site in 1978
by UNESCO.
THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
HISTORY
[ travel planner ]
2014
©M
inis
terio
de
Turis
mo
©D
irecc
ión
del P
arqu
e N
acio
nal G
aláp
agos
2014
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mo
©D
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ión
del P
arqu
e N
acio
nal G
aláp
agos
GA
LAPA
GO
S
On the inhabited islands you
can cycle, ride horses
and kayak.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOWMAP
[ travel planner ]
2014
©M
inis
terio
de
Turis
mo
©D
irecc
ión
del P
arqu
e N
acio
nal G
aláp
agos
2014
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Turis
mo
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irecc
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del P
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nal G
aláp
agos
[ 16 ]
[ travel planner ]
928 km / 501 nautical miles from San Cristobal Island to mainland Ecuador.
UTC (GMT) -6
8,010 km2 / 3,090 square miles of land dispersed over 45,000 km2 / 17.000 square miles of ocean, which cover a total area of 138,000km2 in the Pacific Ocean.
The islands are located on both sides of the equator; in the northern and southern hemispheres. The Galapagos archipel-ago consist of 13 large islands (< 10 km2), 5 medium-sized islands (between 1 and 10 km2), and 215 islets.
From December to June: Hot tropical rainy season Air temperatures can climb up to 36 – 40 ° C / 96 - 104° F during the day. Water temperatures are warm, with an average of 23 - 27° C / 73 - 80+° F.
July to November: Sub-tropical dry season
20 - 24° C / 68 - 75° F during the day and 17 - 20° C / 64 - 70° F at night. Water temperatures are between 18 - 20° C / 65 - 70° F
ECUADORCOUNTRY
LOCATION
CLIMATE
AREA
TIME ZONE
DISTANCEFROM
MAINLAND
26,640 (2012).POPULATION
The flight time between Quito and Guayaquil is 40 minutes. There is a 40 minute stayover in Jose Joaquin del Olmedo airport for all flights.
The flight time from Guayaquil to the islands is 1h40.There are two airports on the islands; one on Baltra and the other on San Cristobal.
The Galapagos transit card costs $20 (TCT) and must be paid in cash before check-in.
The entrance fee for the National Park must be paid in cash upon arrival at the airport in Baltra. FOREIGN VISITORS – Adults
Observe wildlife on a walk, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, go on a boat ride, swim at the beaches, go on a glass-bottom boat ride and more depending on the operator and infrastructure.
Shirts, shorts, zip-o� at the knee cargo pants, swimwear, outdoor shoes (trainers, hiking shoes), long trousers for evenings, a couple of button-up shirts, hat, sunglasses, a lot of sunscreen, camera, small backpack for daily walks, water bottle, and windbreaker.
FLIGHTTIME
ADDITIONALFEES
ACTIVITIES
CLOTHING
$100 – Children $50 and are valid for the duration of your stay. Credit cards are not accepted. All visitors must comply with migratory controls and procedures, and the rules and regulations regarding the introduction of species SICGAL.
+IN
FOR
MAT
ION
[ 17 ]
[ travel planner ]
928 km / 501 nautical miles from San Cristobal Island to mainland Ecuador.
UTC (GMT) -6
8,010 km2 / 3,090 square miles of land dispersed over 45,000 km2 / 17.000 square miles of ocean, which cover a total area of 138,000km2 in the Pacific Ocean.
The islands are located on both sides of the equator; in the northern and southern hemispheres. The Galapagos archipel-ago consist of 13 large islands (< 10 km2), 5 medium-sized islands (between 1 and 10 km2), and 215 islets.
From December to June: Hot tropical rainy season Air temperatures can climb up to 36 – 40 ° C / 96 - 104° F during the day. Water temperatures are warm, with an average of 23 - 27° C / 73 - 80+° F.
July to November: Sub-tropical dry season
20 - 24° C / 68 - 75° F during the day and 17 - 20° C / 64 - 70° F at night. Water temperatures are between 18 - 20° C / 65 - 70° F
ECUADORCOUNTRY
LOCATION
CLIMATE
AREA
TIME ZONE
DISTANCEFROM
MAINLAND
26,640 (2012).POPULATION
The flight time between Quito and Guayaquil is 40 minutes. There is a 40 minute stayover in Jose Joaquin del Olmedo airport for all flights.
The flight time from Guayaquil to the islands is 1h40.There are two airports on the islands; one on Baltra and the other on San Cristobal.
The Galapagos transit card costs $20 (TCT) and must be paid in cash before check-in.
The entrance fee for the National Park must be paid in cash upon arrival at the airport in Baltra. FOREIGN VISITORS – Adults
Observe wildlife on a walk, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, go on a boat ride, swim at the beaches, go on a glass-bottom boat ride and more depending on the operator and infrastructure.
Shirts, shorts, zip-o� at the knee cargo pants, swimwear, outdoor shoes (trainers, hiking shoes), long trousers for evenings, a couple of button-up shirts, hat, sunglasses, a lot of sunscreen, camera, small backpack for daily walks, water bottle, and windbreaker.
FLIGHTTIME
ADDITIONALFEES
ACTIVITIES
CLOTHING
$100 – Children $50 and are valid for the duration of your stay. Credit cards are not accepted. All visitors must comply with migratory controls and procedures, and the rules and regulations regarding the introduction of species SICGAL.
Quito - Baltra (Galapagos) Scales
Days Departure Arrival Flight Scale
Sunday 6:35 9:00 Av1638 GYE
Exc. Mon - Wed 6:35 9:00 EQ191 GYEMonday 6:55 9:20 AV1632 GYETues - Wed - Sat 6:55 8:05 XL1557 0Wed - Tues - Thurs 7:05 9:30 AV1632| GYE
Sunday 7:20 9:45 AV1632 GYESaturday 7:25 9:50 AV1638 GYEFriday 7:25 9:50 AV1632 GYEDaily 9:00 11:30 EQ193 GYESunday 9:05 10:15 XL1557 0Exc. Friday 9:25 12:05 XL1553 GYESunday 10:15 11:20 AV1686 0Saturday 10:20 12:50 AV1634 GYEThurs - Friday 10:25 12:50 AV1684 GYE
Mon - Tuesday 12:35 13:40 AV1688 0
Quito - San Cristóbal (Galapagos)
Days Departure Arrival Flight Scale
Saturday 7:30 9:50 EQ195 GYE
Saturday 8:05 10:40 XL1561 GYE
Sat - Sun 9:00 11:30 AV1636 GYE
Tues – Friday 9:30 11:40 EQ195 GYE
Friday 9:40 12:15 XL1561 GYE
Exc. Sat - Sun 10:10 12:40 AV1630 GYE
Tues - Sun 10:35 13:10 XL1561 GYE
Variations in the tropical climate of the Galapagos
°C °F °C °F °C °F
Maximum air temperature Minimum air Hours of
clear sky Sea Tempreature Wind Navegation
January tempera-ture
Hours clear sky
Sea tempera-ture Wind Navigation 24.4 75.9 3 2
February 29.6 85.2 23.2 73.7 7.5 25.2 77.3 2 1
March 30.6 87.0 22.7 72.8 6.0 24.9 76.8 1 1
April 29.5 85.1 22.7 72.8 7.5 25.0 77.0 2 1
May 27.9 82.2 22.1 71.7 5.2 24.5 76.1 3 2
June 26.0 78.8 19.1 66.3 4.4 23.1 73.5 4 2
July 24.6 76.2 19.8 67.6 2.8 22.0 71.6 5 3
August 24.2 75.5 19.1 66.3 3.3 21.5 70.7 6 4
September 24.3 75.7 19.6 67.2 2.9 21.8 71.2 7 4
October 25.3 77.5 19.5 67.1 3.8 22.3 72.1 6 3
November 25.8 78.4 20.4 68.7 3.5 23.0 73.4 5 3
December 26.7 80.0 20.9 69.6 4.0 23.3 73.9 4 2
San Cristóbal - Quito
Days Departure Arrival Flight Scale
Saturday 10:50 15:00 EQ194 GYE
Saturday 11:20 15:50 XL1560 GYE
Sat - Sun 12:30 17:00 AV1637 GYE
Tues – Friday 12:40 16:50 EQ194 GYE
Friday 12:55 17:30 XL1560 GYE
Exc. Sat - Sun 13:20 17:45 AV1631 GYE
Tues - Sun 13:45 18:15 XL1560 GYE
Baltra - Quito
Days Departure Arrival Flight ScaleSunday 8:40 11:50 XL1556 0Exc. Mon - Wed 9:40 14:05 AV1639 GYE
Monday 10:00 14:30 EQ190 GYETues - Wed - Sat 10:00 14:25 AV1633 GYE
Wed - Tues - Thurs 10:10 14:35 AV1633 GYE
Sunday 10:25 14:50 AV1633 GYESaturday 10:30 14:55 AV1633 GYEFriday 10:30 14:55 AV1639 GYEDaily 11:20 15:55 XL1550 GYESunday 12:00 15:05 AV1697 0Exc. Friday 12:30 17:00 EQ192 GYESunday 12:45 17:20 XL1552 GYESaturday 13:30 16:35 AV1685 0
FLIGHTS
ANNUAL
AND CONNECTIONS TO THE GALAPAGOS
TEMPERATURES
[ travel planner ]
AIRLINES: AV Avianca / Aerogal, EQ Tame XL Lan Ecuador. Flights and schedules are subject to change by the airline.
[ 18 ]
[ travel planner ]
Places of interest: Charles Darwin Station, Puerto Ayora, Isla Santa Cruz Post Office Bay, Isla Floreana Punta Pitt, San Cristóbal.
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Places of interest:
GA
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GO
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HIS
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F T
HE
The most famous explorer in the Galapagos Islands
was Charles Darwin. His journey aboard the HMS
Beagle was a true world-class adventure and once on
the islands, his great powers of observation kept him
very busy taking notes on everything he could find.
These observations would leave a deep impression on
Darwin, and would be the basis for his masterpiece 25
years later, his book “The Origin of Species”. Darwin’s
masterpiece would not have made any sense if the
Galapagos hadn’t been part of the HMS Beagle’s
planned voyage.
The Galapagos became the most enigmatic tropical
desert of the entire trip. How could a place with
tropical vegetation also have penguins? How was
it possible for the sea temperature to be so tepid
while the equatorial line crossed the islands from east
to west? It was these observations that left Darwin
intrigued; just as a present day visitor is excited to
snorkel with penguins, explore the upper reaches of
the islands in search of giant tortoises, and marvel at
the marine iguanas going out to sea in search of algae
on the rocks or diving to great depths in search of food.
The islands have many stories to tell, and today each
visitor writes his own. Many, for example, remain in
silence to watch the courting ritual of blue-footed
boobies, or the gathering of huge cetaceans in the
waters of Canal Bolivar in the west of the Archipelago.
Every day the Galapagos tells a story and does so
with full force and deep sincerity. It is these stories
that made many explorers feel deeply connected to
the islands. In the early 40s, the United States leased
Baltra Island to use as a military base because it is
strategically positioned to protect the famous Panama
Canal during World War II.
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[ 19 ]
[ travel planner ]
The Galapagos experience can be very rewarding underwater too. To see a variety of different species, such as penguins together with tropical fish,
sea lions with sea turtles, and more, are unique and unimaginable elsewhere in the world. The integrity of the Galapagos Marine Reserve plays a vital
role in the survival of the species on land.
Two hundred years ago, the Galapagos had
already been explored, and although it was
discovered by accident in 1535, it was the
buccaneers, pirates and whalers who took
advantage of the economic possibilities the
islands had to offer.
This reality demonstrated to all past explorers
the strategic value in visiting the Islands. It was
precisely those first buccaneers and whalers who
found, in the emblematic giant tortoise a great
source of food, and as a result their numbers
dropped drastically. Today, thanks to the
efforts of the Galapagos National Park Service
and the Charles Darwin Research Station, the
numbers and state of the surviving populations
are success stories. The methods used in the
Galapagos have been utilized by other countries
to develop other conservation programes. In
very little time, the Galapagos Islands have
become a driving example for everyone.
Ninety-five percent of the Galapagos Islands’
biodiversity remains intact. In other words, the
presence of man on the islands has only caused
a 5% loss of original biodiversity. This reality
makes the Galapagos the best conservation
model of oceanic islands.
There’s no doubt that Darwin’s finches are a
group of birds that may seem simple because
they are not particularly attention-grabbing.
However, modern studies of natural selection
and evolutionary biology base their research
on these groups of birds in order to prove their
principles. When exploring any island in the
Galapagos, it is well-worth taking the time to
appreciate these birds. Some islands are perfect
for understanding the differences between the
13 species of finches.
Islands such as Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, to
Española, Isabela and Genovesa allow you not
only see different species of finches but also
marked differences in the size of the beaks and
feeding behaviour of each. This unique bird
has been an example of evolution that Darwin
observed and draw for ours and days. The key
to obeserve these creatures is a good pair of
binoculars and careful attention to details. The
different beak sizes fit perfectly with the idea of
different tools that serve several functions.
This is the basis of natural selection: different
available niches have been occupied by various
adaptations of the original forms. This is the
magical world we see and appreciate on the
Galapagos islands.
These islands are of course a national park,
but they are also a marine reserve. The marine
habitat supports most of the species we see
on land since their survival is dependent on
the ocean. It is in the sea where albatrosses,
boobies, frigate birds, penguins, cormorants, sea
lions, seagulls, herons, and many more feed.
And it is on land where we see the entirety of
these species.
The colours of the islands come from the tropical
equatorial light and the extensive volcanic
eruptions from different volcanic islands. The
tuff is a series of layers of compacted ash that
forms when magma comes into sudden contact
with sea water at a shallow depth. The colours of
these formations range from yellowy-brown, dark
brown, orange, to dark red and their respective
ranges. These, mixed with the light from sunrise
or sunset will make any visitor fall in love with the
Galapagos islands.
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GA
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The populated areas of the islands have
developed an important hotel base
with broad accommodation options. The
vast majority of these have programs that
give access to different areas of the island
they are based on, and some hotels have
developed marine operations providing
yacht tours that explore different sites of
the Galapagos National Park. Visitors are
always recommended to ask for as much
information as possible about the activities
available, and to clarify which activities are
and which activities are not included in the
price of their trip.
The inhabited islands have a large selection
of local tour operators that offer a range of
excursions: long walks, beaches, surfing,
kayaking, cycling, snorkeling, and scuba
diving among others.
The natural resources of the inhabited islands are almost always complemented by the wealth of human resources.
Nowadays, the interest in the human history of the islands is increasing more and more. The islands are a
permanent source of enigmas, stories, mysteries and great tales. Let’s not forget that the islands were officially
discovered in 1535, but it wasn’t until 1832 that they maintained a permanent population after being declared a
territory of the Republic of Ecuador.
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This offer allows the modern-day visitor
to have a very fulfilling experience
while enjoying the natural beauty of the
surroundings. We must not forget that the
Galapagos community also has a large
contingent of artists and artisans who have
developed art galleries, souvenir shops,
paintings, and handcrafts.
And if we were to discuss food, the islands
and its marine culture have a range of
specialties and delicacies that will delight
the most discerning palate.
These attractions invite the visitors to
carefully consider the idea of expanding
their itinerary in the Galapagos with
respect to the inhabited islands. A cruise-
hotel combination is one of the best ways
to experience both islands´worlds
For those who are looking to maintain
contact with the world, the inhabited
islands also have several businesses
specializing in clothing, as well as cafés,
ice cream shops, banks, ATMs, internet
cafés and more. Being in the Galapagos
can make you feel isolated. The inhabited
islands allow us to be connected with to
the rest of the planet.
The visitor decides how isolated from the
world he/she wishes to be.
INHABITED ISLANDSINFO
SAN CRISTÓBAL
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
5,600 inhabitants
To see all the hotels, please see the tourism directory:
trade.allyouneedisecuador.travel
SANTA CRUZ
Puerto Ayora
15,000 inhabitants
ISABELA
Puerto Villamil
2,200 inhabitants
FLOREANA
Floreana
100 inhabitants
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GA
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SC
RU
ISE
S The most famous and popular method
of traveling in the archipelago is on a
cruise. The concept is to have the ease of
a floating hotel that sails primarily at night,
allowing the traveler to truly move from
island to island.
There are yachts, sailboats and yacht
expedition cruises. The maximum operating
capacity is 100 passengers. There are some
ships in the range of 80 – 90, expedition
yachts range between 40 – 50, some with a
capacity of 20 and finally, a range of small
boats that accommodate between 8 and 16
passengers. The offers are very diverse and a
successful trip goes beyond simply choosing
the best price. It is a trip of a lifetime and
should generate a wealth of memories for
those who visit the islands.
While it is not easy to decide whether a
boat or a small yacht expedition is the right
choice, the important thing is to understand
the real differences between the different
cruise options. Cruise ships and expedition
yachts are both suitable for groups.
On-board facilities include spacious
cabins, wall-to-wall windows, balconies,
air-conditioning, hot showers with constant
pressure, desalination facilities, treatments
facilities for grey and black water, high-tech
equipment, rooms for scientific conferences,
Internet & wi-fi access, various food services,
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[ travel planner ]
a la carte and more. On small yachts,
passengers are able to get to know each
other better given the small group numbers
and, in most cases, there is only one activity
that takes place at a time.
A small yacht will experience a greater impact
from ocean waves and passengers will feel
these much more than a big ship.
These are important facts to consider when
choosing a boat on which to explore the
islands. This is another reason to ask all the
necessary questions to travel agents and
operators beforehand. The more questions
that are asked and answered beforehand, the
better the experience will be.
EVERYTHING ABOUT CRUISESBE N XPERT
GUIDANCE1 nature guide for every 16 visitors, who maintains
the environmental standard
ITINERARIESShips are permitted to take you to the
popular sites within the 138,000 km2 area
of the islands.
CRUISES There are cruises for 6 to 100 passengers.
All the information about cruises can be found on the Tourism Directory.
What you need to know
The success of the routes assigned to each operator by the Galapagos National Park, is based on creating the best
experience for the visitor while ensuring the lowest environmental impact. Since 2012, the idea has been to provide
an operational patent with a 15-day itinerary divided into shorter sub-itineraries.
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[ travel planner ]
GA
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OM
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NIT
Y The first question we ask ourselves is how can a paradise like the
Galapagos maintain sustainable tourism over time. The key is proper natural resource management, caring for the environment and preventing the impact that populations and tourism generate. There is a plan for the Environmental Management of the Galapagos Islands and a Governing Council of the Special Administration of the Galapagos. This council is responsible for the administration of the province, planning and land use planning, resource management and organization of the activities carried out in the Galapagos to ensure the conservation of the natural heritage of the islands as well as the community. Within this organization is
the Galapagos National Park which is responsible for the conservation of the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the islands and marine ecosystems in the protected areas of the archipelago, as well as the use of the goods and services they generate for the community. This entity is in charge of regulating the tourist sites and quotas of tourists visiting each island with all cruises, hotels and tour operators in the Galapagos.
Then there are the foundations that perform specific protection tasks such as the Charles Darwin Foundation that has provided solutions to the Galapagos islands for over 50 years. It has put forward ideas through scientific research in order to ensure the conservation
John Garate
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[ travel planner ]
and biodiversity of the environment. Its programs target controlling invasive species, researching sustainability, and effective conservation management.
We cannot fail to mention their hard work in protecting turtles, penguins, and cormorants in the research centre in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The legendary Lonesome Gearge has lived there for many decades, and the efforts to save its specie were countless.
In the archipelago, there is cooperation between the municipality of Santa Cruz, the Galapagos National Park, the WWF and the Galapagos Foundation, developing projects to solve current problems such as urban and coastal pollution, while seeking to generate awareness of environmental conservation. They have thus created initiatives to clean up the coast through the collection and sorting of hundreds of tons of solid waste
pollution in which the community actively
participates. Since 2000, in the garbage recycling plant “Fabricio Valverde” on Santa Cruz Island, about 50 tons of plastic, glass and paper products, and 60 tons of organic material are recycled every month. Furthermore, the population is educated on how to separate garbage. Thus, Santa Cruz Island has become an example to the world in the processing of solid waste.
On February 11, 2015 the Assembly of the Governing Council of the Administration for the Galapagos promoted responsible consumption of disposable plastic by regulating their marketing and distribution in the Galapagos. August 10, 2015 is the deadline for adopting the use of alternative products and not to market or distribute plastic bags or foam
type packaging. All of this organization and public/private coorperation makes the Galapagos a global example of sustainable resource management.
Charles Darwin Station, Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz Galapagos Foundation, Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz WWF, Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz
Sites Of Interest:
The Galapagos Islands awaken the senses; the colours, the breeze, the wildlife, the sun’s energy, the force of the sea, and
the mixture of sensations. There are beautiful destinations in the world, but the Galapagos is a unique trip of a lifetime.
Those who have the opportunity to take this trip, understand the importance of protecting both flora and fauna.
ESPECIAL PROGRAMSVOLUNTEERING CLEANING
THE COAST www.facebook.com/fundaciongalapagos
COMMUNITY SERVICE
www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec
CHARLES DARWIN FOUNDATION
www.darwinfoundation.org
[ 26 ]
[ travel planner ]
[ 26 ]
GA
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W I n the 60s and 70s, the Galapagos explorer sought
a simple destination. He/she was an explorer of
nature and did not demand the sophistication of
services and perhaps was less demanding in his/
her expectations. This was the reality for travelers
at that time. Today, the nature explorer has more
experience with travel than those from the past. The
world is more accessible and easier to discover, and
technological developments make destinations seem
much closer than they really are.
Today´s nature explorer wants to share his/her
world on social media as soon as possible. That
is, it has redefined the word “instant”. The use of
digital cameras has turned many people into instant
professional photographers. It is this combination
of realities which has transformed the modern nature
explorer. The positive benefit of these changes is
the behaviour of visitors to the Galapagos; making
them more discerning observers, and making them
more willing to protect the resources. This is good
because it means that we haven’t lost the ensence
of the Galapagos. On the other hand, excellent
international promotional efforts have opened
Ecuador and the Galapagos to new markets, while
also strengthening its presence in traditional ones,
and the visitor numbers speak for themselves. Today’s
Galapagos nature explorer is also more demanding
regarding food.
He/She likes to explore flavours, seasonings, the
textures of fruit, and the combination of colours,
etc. This fact should motivate us to develop creative
cuisine on boats, yachts, and hotels in the Galapagos.
It is the perfect moment to promote more of the
Ecuadorian cuisine and make it part of the culture and
identity of the country. The modern nature explorer
We hope the lessons and messages that the islands leave on visitors become the best motivators to make them
more peaceful, more understanding and more convinced to leave a better planet for the future generations.
demonstrates many positive characteristics.
For example, there are travelers who enjoy practicing
their artistic skills with watercolour while birdwatching.
There are also travelers who enjoy a nice glass of
champagne before lunch and in the evening, are
delighted to observe the stars in the night sky. Who
has never met someone searching for a five star
experience while also surfing at Turtle Bay or Playa
Carola or at El Garrapatero?
We hope that the lessons and messages of the islands
motivate visitors to make this world more peaceful
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and understanding, leaving future generations a
better planet. The world of the modern explorer
is very diverse and so should be the offers of tour
operators. The Galapagos is a very interesting
place to develop diversity and niche destinations.
Some Galapagos explorers seek the best of both
worlds, land and sea.
The explorer seeks cruise ships and hotel stays.
This allows them to observe and assimilate
the Galapagos from different perspectives. In
some areas travelers wish to scuba dive or to do
physically demanding activities that are impossible
to do on cruise ships such as trekking, recreational
cycling, kayaking, etc. There are also avid scuba
divers who would prefer to exclusively dive for 1 or
2 weeks. Others prefer more social activities within
the community and others still are interested in
nightlife. This shows us that the modern traveler is
more diverse than in the past.
Therefore, their expectations are much higher.
If these expectations are to be fulfilled or even
bettered, these explorers will be the best
marketing tool to promote the natural beauty and
social development of the Galapagos Islands.
Finally, the experience of the islands awakens
the senses; the colours, the breeze, the wildlife,
the sun’s energy, the force of the sea, and the
combination of sensations are what give meaning
to this trip of a lifetime. There are beautiful places
in the world, but Galapagos is unique among
those unforgettable destinations.
Those who visit the islands understand the
importance of protecting the integrity of the
natural resources and the need to raise awareness
about the world in which we live.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOWBE N XPERT
MONEY Since the year 2000, the official currency throughout Ecuador
is the US dollar.
HEALTH Clínica Hiperbárica in Puerto Ayora, Isla
Santa Cruz.
NEW AIRPORTEcological Baltra
Island Airport
SAFETY Streets, parks and
nature walks in populated areas are possible at any time
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GA
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O Year after year, the Galapagos becomes
more coveted by travellers who want
to experience pristine and untouched
nature. A place lost in the Pacific Ocean,
where animals trust humans, where you
can observe sea lions, boobies, iguanas,
and giant tortoises just a few meters away
without frightening them. It seems as
though the animals are the ones observing
and studying humans because for decades
the people have respected and cared for
them as a treasure of humanity.
The traveler who has experienced a
wonderful trip, is one who loves nature;
its stunning volcanic landscape, with its
great number of animals and their friendly
attitude. They will have a transformative trip
in the Galapagos that will be life changing;
not just because of the stunning landscapes
of the islands, but also the experience
of swimming with sea lions, Galapagos
penguins, and sea turtles among schools
of colourful fish. Not to mention the scuba
diving experience in Galapagos which is one
of the best in the world, classified by experts
as the top destination in many cases. This is
due to the possibility of diving near turtles
and hammerhead sharks, as well as larger
species like whale sharks in Darwin and Wolf
Bay, among others.
Until the 2000s most tourists were retirees
from the USA and Europe, but in the last 15
John Garate
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years there has been a notable increase in
the number of families with children ages 8
and older; they are active people who want
to do more adventurous activities. For them,
we recommend a tour combining a cruise
and hotels. It is important that travellers are
aware of their impact on the islands and only
walk on the trails and not touch the animals.
These rules help preserve these wonderful
islands for all future generations. Your
contribution at the National Park Entrance
is to help keep this Natural Heritage Site as
pristine as it was thousands of years ago.
It is a true laboratory of life, it is a gift for all
travellers of all future generations.
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOWBE N XPERT
FOOD You cannot eat at visitor’s sites due to the possibility
of contaminating the environment with the
introduction of invasive species
DRINKSThe bottle of
water provided to each visitor at the beginning of their
trip, must be refilled to avoid polluting.
THE ISLANDS Non-inhabited islands
can only be visited until 18:00
www.galapagospark.orgWhat You Need To Know
For travelers arriving with a partner, families of 4 or groups of 3 to 6 people, it is important to know the pace and
style of vacation they want in order to decide between a cruise for 100 people or 40, a small family-sized yacht or
even hotels. The average stay is 7 days, and this experience can be combined with hundreds of attractions available.
mainland Ecuador.
[ 30 ]
[ travel planner ] [ travel planner ]
GOLD LEAF
COLONIAL ART
The Compañía de Jesús Church glows with
richly carved cedar wood in Baroque style,
covered with 23 carat gold leafing, on an all
red background.
[ 31 ]
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GAST
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MIR
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[ 32 ]
[ gastronomy ]
To taste a dish originating from the
tropical province of Esmeraldas, the
place to go is the traditional restaurant
“Mar y Rio”, located on the canton of Eloy
Alfaro, in the northern parish of La Tola,
in this province.
For the past 10 years, tourists from
Ecuador and Colombia have been offered,
by residents of the region, the flavour of the
“Jaiba Encocada” made by Mercy Barahona,
an expert in the preparation of this dish as
she learned to prepare it as a 12-year-old
from her grandmother, Maria Tenorio.
The Jaiba Encocada is prepared using thick
coconut milk, which is used at two different
stages; the first is kept for the end and the
second is mixed with tropical seasonings,
salt and annatto.
AN EXOTIC DISH,THAT TASTES OF THE SEA AND COCONUTA TRUE DELICACY»
ENCO
CADA
THE
JAIB
A
[ 33 ]
[ gastronomy ]
The jaiba, with its long claws, is larger than the crab. It has 10 legs and 2 different ways of swimming.
Its shell is flat with peaks at the sides and is caught in the water. There are two varieties; the sea
jaiba “jaiba mareña” and the smaller variety found in rivers “jaiba de río”. The jaiba is caught year
round. Crabs live and grow in the ground on mangroves. The crab has two established seasons
when it cannot be caught; the first is when they mate and the second is when their shells mutate and
their meat is not fit for consumption.
LA JAIBA AZUL (THE BLUE JAIBA)
It has a wide convex shell with a distinctive
turquoise colour. It has four rounded front teeth
in its claws.
LA JAIBA VERDE O ARQUEADA (THE GREEN JAIBA)
Its scientific name is Callinectes Arcuatus
Ordway and it has a convex shell. Their claws
have four frontal teeth.
LA JAIBA MAREÑA (THE SEA JAIBA)
It has an oval-shaped body and its rugged shell
measures, on average, 12cm wide. Its scientific
name is Euphylax Robustus A. Milne Edwards
OF THE JAIBA AND THE CRAB
CHARACTERISTICS
Source: El Comercio daily newspaper
Once the mixture thickens, fresh Jaiba
meat is added to the leftover coconut
milk. It is left to boil, and then is ready
to eat.
This is a family business where all of
the family members work. Doña Mercy
cooks the same jaibas her son, Dervis
Alex Quiñónez, catches.
Her daughter, Anita Quiñónez Barahona,
shares the responsibilities of cooking
this delicacy, as well as other dishes
available at the “Mar y Rio” restaurant.
Her husband, Antonio Quiñónez with
whom she has shared her life for the
past 30 years, is a fisherman and also
plays an import role by providing a
variety of fish and seafood to Doña
Mercy which helps to complement
the rest of the menu. Her fame has
spread thanks to her loyal customers
and word of mouth. When customers
arrive, they always ask “Do you have
jaiba encocada?”, and if there isn’t any,
they leave.
In hotels and seaside restaurants
all over the country, jaiba dishes can
be found prepared in different ways,
with different flavours and called by
different names.
[ 34 ][ 34 ]
[ gastronomy ]
Rudy Assan, owner and chef of the
seafood restaurant “El Lechón” located
in Guayaquil, has been offering his signature
dish, “Encebollado” a traditional dish from
the Pacific coast, for the last 36 years.
It’s difficult to know how many people
haven’t tasted this dish, originally from
Puerto Principal. It has spread through
many regions and can now be found in
hotels and restaurants throughout Ecuador.
TO DELIGHT THE PALATE»
ENCE
BOLL
ADO A TOUCH OF SPICE AND
SOURNESS COMBINE
[ 35 ]
[ gastronomy ]
The yellowfin tuna is the perfect fish for making encebollado. It is bigger and offers a better
flavour. This fish can be caught 10 months out of the year. From February to March it is more
difficult to find because the water is warmer and therefore the fish move further away from the
coast and as Rudy says “when fishing further from the cost, it can take 2 to 3 days to return and
the only way to preserve the fish is to put salt on them”, which causes cracks and diminishes the
quality of the catch. OF THE YELLOWFIN TUNA
CHARACTERISTICS
[ 35 ]
TOMATOES AND PEPPERS ONION AND CASSAVA PARSLEY AND CORIANDER
Rudy learned to prepare this dish
in his childhood. His teacher was
his father, Jimmy Assan who began
to offer his customers this delicacy
beginning in 1980 when he opened a
restaurant, oddly named “El Lechón”,
meaning “Piglet”. Rudy has stated
that this “contradiction” helps surprise
customers, as the name of the
restaurant has nothing to do with the
menu and food offer.
According to Rudy, encebollado
originated between 1965 and 1970
when it was cooked and offered to high
school boys when they had finished
classes for the day and to men on
their way to work. Encebollado was
known at that time as “Picante” or
“Spicy”. Interestingly, it was not eaten
by women, “It was a taboo” Rudy says,
because the dish was considered to be
an aphrodisiac and the conservative
society wanted to shield women from
the effects of this powerful food.
In “El Lechón”, the whole family works;
father, mother and two children. The
building has changed over the years
and is now made of cement.
Rudy was 4 years old when the
restaurant first started serving
encebollado. “Bonito” fish was used at
that time in the preparation of the dish.
However, since then it has changed to
Albacore or “Yellowfin tuna”.
Customers who visit the restaurant are
from all over the country. Returning
migrants visit the restaurant as soon
as possible to reexperience the taste of
the dish they missed.
[ 36 ]
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[ 36 ]
This dish is originally from San Vicente
en Manabi, and is offered in the “Petiso
el original” restaurant. The restaurant is
named after the owner, Byron Vera, who
was nicknamed “Petiso” when he played
football at Eloy Alfaro High School. He
added the term “original” to differentiate the
restaurant from others.
He acquired his knowledge of cooking from
his mother, Jesús Zambrano Pino de Vera
who opened the “Sol y Sombra” restaurant
in 1978 when Byron was 19 years old. In
the following years he studied and earned
his degree in Ecotourism.
On February 14, 1990, St Valentin’s Day,
Byron took the opportunity to open his own
restaurant specializing in seafood. Taking
advantage of the location, he was able to
A UNIQUE BLEND OF FLAVOURS OF THE SEA»
HEALTHY ELIXIR,FRESH INGREDIENTS,
[ gastronomy ]
INTE
ROCE
ANIC
OCE
VICH
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[ gastronomy ]
[ 37 ]
ww
[ 37 ]
A green plantain is a yellow unripened plantain that has different uses in the kitchen. While the
yellow and red plantain can be eaten immediately after peeling, the green plantain is best eaten
cooked, boiled, or fried. Nutritionally speaking, the green plantain is a source of fiber, vitamins
and minerals. In Ecuador, it is the ideal complement to many dishes. OF GREEN PLANTAIN CHARACTERISTICS
source all of the fresh products in the
quantities needed, locally.
The traditional cuisine and culture of
each region are intertwined and in
some cases, they work together to
maintain a vibrant population. It is no
coincidence that Byron Vera opened
his restaurant on Valentine’s Day and
that his main dish is believed to be
a powerful aphrodisiac, because of
the 12 types of seafood it contains,
which help “procreation because they
increase the reproductive genes”. This
idea is supported by the testimonial
of “Señor Andrade”, a client of Byron’s
from Ambato, who couldn’t have
children. Señor Adrade is grateful to
Byron and the effects of the ceviche
interoceanico which allowed him to
have a beautiful daughter.
Customers come mainly from
Portoviejo, Guayaquil and Quito.
The number of visitors increases on
weekends and holidays. He works with
his wife and a group of employees.
The ceviche interoceánico is made
with prawns, shellfish, squid, snail,
oysters, sea cucumber, crab, jaiba,
octopus, pidiguaneja (also known as
navaja), king prawns, and fish. All of
these ingredients are boiled, except
the shellfish, then the juice is made
from the liquid left from these sea
creatures. The liquid is combined with
onion, tomato, lime, salt, pepper and
coriander and the dish is served with
chilfles (thinly-sliced fried plantain).
The restaurant offers other seafood
based dishes.
There are different types of ceviche
made from various ingredients in every
city and region of Ecuador. They are
sometimes called mixed or “marinero”
or “sailor” ceviche.
SHRIMP AND GREEN PLANTAIN MUSSELS AND CLAMS LIME
TOQUILLASTRAW HATS
For the past 150 yeras, in the province of Azuay, in the city of Montecristi (Manabí)
the toquilla straw (carludovica palmata) has been used to make the famous hats.
There are four categories of hats: standard, superior, fine and superfine. The most
beautiful superfine hats are woven with the finest and lightest straw. The process takes
three months and the hats can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, at a lower
price than in stores.
HERITAGE
Homero Ortega
CULT
URE
AM
AZ
ON
HU
AO
RA
NI
»HUAO
RAN
I
GUARDIANS OF THE BIODIVERSE RAINFOREST
[ culture ]
[ 41 ]
The Huaorani are a tribe of hunters
and warriors who first came in
contact with the outside world 50 years
ago. Since then the modern world
has slowly entered their territory. It
is through ecotourism that they have
been able to stop this trend and keep
their independence. The Huaorani
Ecolodge is an association of five
communities living on 50,000 hectares
on the border of three provinces; Napo,
Pastaza and Orellana. They receive
their guests with curiousity and open
arms everytime a small plane arrives
in their territory on the banks of the
river Shiripuna. Twenty years ago,
Moi Enomenga, spokesman for the
Huaorani community met a man in
Coca who was studying his Masters in
the ecology of the Amazon region. They
decided to create an ecotourism project
with an initial goal to share Huaorani
concerns and simultaneously generate
knowledge about what was happening
in their territory.
Since 2004, the project has been
refined to achieve a better balance
between the economy, the society
and the environment through the
development of ecotourism standards
which meet the criteria for sustainable
and responsible travel.
At first, explorers do not know how the
Huaorani will react to them and vice
versa. This unique experience offers
a respectful, sensitive and intimate
interaction between different cultures
in a very remote area. Travelers are
fascinated by this. Today, this cultural
experience has been recognised with
many awards and categorized by
experts as one of the 10 best in the
world. The experience lasts 4 to 5 days
depending on the traveler´s wishes.
The visitors are always accompanied
by a guide. Travelers leave Quito by
road and travel through the Avenida
de los Volcanes (Volcano Avenue),
passing through Baños while observing
the dramatic change in vegetation all
the way to the town of Shell. From
this town, they fly in a small plane
for 30 minutes above the Amazon
to an airstrip in the territory of the
Quehueri´ono community. From there,
they travel on the river by canoe for
a few minutes until they reach the
ecolodge where they can have lunch
and relax for the rest of the day.
On the second day, the experience
is more focused on learning about
the community. The Huaorani have
their own language, culture, and way
3 Means of transportation are needed to enter into Huaorani territory. You will travel by vehicle, small plane and canoe to arrive at your ecolodge.
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of seeing the world, and visitors have the
opportunity to see nature and wildlife through
their eyes. They open their doors to visitors
and are very friendly and welcoming. The
interaction is alway respectful and sensitive.
Visitors can buy handcrafts and take part
in a simulated hunt. The Huaorani actively
participated in the construction of the 5 double
cabins of the lodge in an area where they retain
their autonomy and privacy. These cabins can
host up to 10 people and have been rebuilt
with solar panels and screens on the walls, so
visitors can maintain close contact with the
environment that surrounds them.
Before construction, Jascivan Carvalho,
manager of Tropic Journeys in Nature and
founder of this business model, told us that he
asked all community members how was their
quality of life. “The answer was unanimous:
excellent. And this caused doubts about the
true need for the project. We were ready to
leave the area. What was the purpose of this
project if the Huaorani felt very happy with their
lives?” As they always do, the Huaorani met
to decide what to do. In these meetings there
is no one authority and everyone can express
their opinion: adults, women, grandparents
and children. After some time, they reached
an agreement. “That day” recollects Jascivan
“a woman stood up and explained that the
community needed medicine and education for
their children.”
The uniqueness of the project comes from the
union of two wishes: to maintain the lifestyle of
the community via conservation and the other,
social development without an interest in the
accumulation of wealth but rather concern
for its people’s welfare. One can say that this
has been a success as it has allowed for an
accurate mapping of the Huaorani territory
in which they have identified places to collect
wood or protected zones in which to hunt, in
MORE INFORMATION
1) www.destinationecuador.com
2) www.huaorani.com
3) www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
THE HUAORANI
Nice and friendly people who are always smiling.
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[ 43 ][ 43 ][ 43 ][ 43 ]
5 Cabins make up the Huaorani Ecolodge. They are located in an area near the territory of the Quehueriono community on the border of three provinces in Ecuador: Napo, Pastaza and Orellana. This community, as well as others, live along the Shiripuna River.
THE HUAORANI ECOLODGE WON THE WLA AWARD IN THE CATEGORY OF “ENGAGING COMMUNITIES”.
order to protect the rich biodiversity of
the region. According to Jascivan, the
first time he went to the area to visit
the Huao community there were only
women and children. Thanks to the
jobs created by the ecolodge, men who
previously worked in nearby cities have
returned to their community.
After participating in the construction
of the lodge with the Huaorani, Tropic
decided to donate the assets and
infrastructure of the ecolodge to the
community. They run the lodge as
an association, allowing for a fair
distribution of the wealth generated by
work rotation in areas such as service,
transportation, and maintenance
as well as tourist guide. This way,
everyone benefits although no one
is obliged to work. At the end of the
year, profits are reinvested in the
community`s development.
On the last day of their trip, visitors go
down river in a kayak or canoe to visit
the camp developed by the operators
of the Association which is also a
conservation area. For the visitors, it
is a great moment of excitement when
they realize how the Huaorani have
been able to safeguard their culture,
traditions and maintain the biodiversity
through tourism, which is the only way
to avoid the invasion of their territory.
In March, Tropic Journeys in Nature
won the World Legacy Award in the
category of “Engaging Communities”,
mainly thanks to its activities with the
Huaorani Community.
Tropic has an exclusive contract
with the Huaorani and is responsible
for organizing the logistics and
administrative duties for vistors’
trips. They respect four pillars of the
operation: conservation, community,
culture and commerce.
This philosophy helps the operator
adapt to different communities and
develop sustainable tourism initiatives
related to social responsibilities in
other regions of Ecuador.
These awards are an initiative of
National Geographic in partnership
with ITB Berlin and Ecuador as a
sponsor. The aim is to reward hotels,
ecolodges or countries involved
in caring for the environment, the
protection of cultural and human
heritage not to mention the benefit
to local communities. The winners
were chosen by a panel of 18
international judges led by Costas
Christ, contributing editor of National
Geographic Traveler.
Thanks to this award, Jascivan hopes
to develop more sustainable tourism
and ecotourism in other remote
regions of the country: “Ecuador
is the perfect destination for these
more intimate experiences with a
high educational content for the
visitor, while at the same time, giving
something to local populations and
helping to protect the environment.”
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[ 44 ]
1. What places do you enjoy in Ecuador?Quito, for its history and its people. A beautiful and valued historical
center, in a just a few blocks we can be transported to colonial times,
with its buildings and churches where we can appreciate the art of the
era in all its glory. Galapagos, a unique place in the world that allows
us to experience nature in its purests state. Avenida de los Volcanes, Otavalo, incredible landscapes and to meet its people, with their warmth
and customs is an experience worth having. The Amazon, is somewhere I
would like to visit, but haven’t yet.
2. What is the best product Ecuador has to offer?Its people, its vibrant culture and the biodiversity to be found in its small
territory. Galapagos, a unique place.
3. What advice would you give to someone who wants to promote Ecuador?They should show beautiful videos promoting this destination , in which the
viewer can admire the incredible beauty and variety of its landscapes, its
people, its culture and the countless activities that can be enjoyed.
1. What are the places that you prefer from Ecuador? Why?The Galapagos is still the undisputed star for its true beauty and its
uniqueness in the panorama of world tourism. However, there are other
very special places such as high mountains and snowy peaks, the best part
of the Amazon, its “all green” cultivated fields that climb up the mountains
to an almost vertical position, quiet and historical colonial towns. The
popular little markets and its people.
2. What is the best product that Ecuador can offer?A fascinating mixture of landcapes, history, humanity, contrasts and (why
not) the cuisine. Without a doubt, the Galapagos is the most attractive
and easy.
3. What advice would you give someone who wants to sell Ecuador?That they visit and experience it, and not forget that it is an easy product
to sell to tourists 12 months of the year. They will be able to admire the
incredible beauty and variety of its landscapes, its people, its culture, and
the countless activities that can be enjoyed.
OF THE PROFESSIONALSVOICES
MAURO OLIVERODirector of South American Product Il Tuccano Viaggi- Torino - Italia
ELISA ESPÍNDOLADirector of Espíndola Viajes - Buenos Aires - Argentina
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[ 45 ]
Adventure Week
Ecuador, Fam Trip
14 -
24
In all of
Ecuador
Ecuador hosts the ATTA (Adventure
Travel Trade Association), Adventure
Travel Week positioning itself to
international media, trade and tourist
adventure industry.
Fiesta de los
Moros24
Latacunga
(Cotopaxi)
Food, dancing, parades, games,
fireworks to honor the Patron, Saint
John.
Fiesta de San
Pedro y San Pablo29 Manabí
In this celebration, fishermen and
their families pay them tribute of
appreciation
Visit of Pope
Francis the First6 - 8
Quito &
Guayaquil
Ecuador, a Catholic and devout
country, awaits with joy the Pope's
arrival. with processions and
celebrations,
Celebrations of the
Virgen del Carmen16
Ibarra, Otavalo
and Chota
(Imbabura)
The celebrations of the Virgin,
initiated by the faith and devout, with
popular music, mad cows, masses and
elegant processions
Festival of James
the Greater20
Píllaro
(Tungurahua)
Atmosphere of celebration and joy
with bull fights, fireworks games, local
bands and several popular attractions.
II. JUNE 2015 II. JULY 2015
It is celebrated primarily in Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Cañar, Azuay and Loja in honour of the summer solstice. The God Inti (Sun) is thanked for the bountiful harvest and Pachamama (Mother Earth) is asked to bless and care for the crops. The dancers decorate their heads with mirrors, sequins, and feathers, and the character of the devil (huma) spins round with his two-faced mask. Inti Raymi means “Sacred Feast of the Sun” and is a highly spiritual celebration based on agricultural cycles of sowing and reaping, movements of the sun and moon, and the geographical position of the towns located high in the Andes. The celebration can last for days, weeks or months with colourful and symbolic events from the indigenous world.
INTI RAYMI FESTIVAL
EVENTSCALENDAR OF
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[ 46 ]
WH
ER
E T
O B
UY
IT
Cuenca is a city of craftsmen, in the “Athens of Ecuador”
where you can find many leather goods like jackets,
shoes, suitcases, handbags or belts. They are manufactured
using high-quality leather treatment and processes that
allow for attention to detail and attractive finishes. The
Centro Interamericano de Artes Populares is a museum
where you can admire more than 7,000 pieces from various
Latin American countries as well as handcrafts and folk
art from Ecuador. At the craftstore “El Barranco”, you
can purchase guaranteed quality and authentic products.
The Centro Municipal de Artesanias has 86 stores selling
handicrafts and leather goods.
CUENCA: INTERAMERICAN CENTER OF POPULAR ARTS (CIDAP): Hermano Miguel 3-23 and Paseo Tres
de Noviembre (CUENCA). QUISAPINCHA: 15 minutes from Ambato in the Central Plaza. COTACACHI: 10 de Agosto Street.
AmbatoQuisapincha, 15 minutes from the city of
Ambato, is considered to be the “leather
tourist route” because of its handcrafts and the
production of leather clothing at low prices. The
local fair on weekends takes place in the Plaza
Central, opposite the church (from 7h to 13h).
Cuenca
CotacachiIn this city you can find a variety of colours and
innovative designs of shoes, handbags, jackets
and hats in the 120 stores located on 10 de
Agosto Street. In addition, the Reserva Ecologica
Cotacachi-Cayapas and Lake Cuicocha are very
close by.
Lituma - Peláez arte en joyería, Chordeleg - Azuay
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PHYLLOMEDUSA VAILLANTII
Ecuador is the country with the third largest number of amphibians. In the four worlds of Ecuador there are about 400 species. This means that 10% of the
world’s species are present in the country.
FROGHuaorani Eco-Lodge
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade /EcuadorTravelB2B @ EcuaTravelTrade All You Need is Ecuador/Trade
May 26 May 27
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